
Begin your dream career as a tech-savvy wood machinist. Learn to use computer numerical control (CNC) technology. Craft beautiful timber furniture for a range of industries.
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
use computer aided drawing (CAD) and computer aided machining (CAM)
operate computer numerical control (CNC) technology
work with timber, veneers, particle boards and synthetic woods
mark out, cut and shape timber products
fit hinges, locks, catches, drawers and shelves
produce machine tooling such as cutters and knives.
Learn core skills that prepare you for opportunities in your chosen field.
A nationally accredited qualification at certificate III level.
The skills to work from detailed drawings and specifications to make furniture.
Experience using machinery to make a range of quality products such as window frames, stepladders, coffee tables, magazine racks and mouldings.
Strong pathways to continue your study and enhance your career opportunities.
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol.
This course can be completed as part of an apprenticeship. Enquire today to check the eligibility requirements.
You must be employed as an apprentice in the industry.
Your Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) must submit your Training Proposal Plan (TPP).
Visit our apprenticeships and traineeships page for more information.
Non‑apprenticeship pathways for trade‑related qualifications allow you to have your industry skills assessed through recognition of prior learning (RPL) and complete any required gap training to gain a trade qualification.
You must be at least 21 years of age, shown by photo ID.
You must have at least 2 years of work experience in the relevant occupation or trade, confirmed by your resume or letters from employers.
You must be currently employed in the relevant industry, confirmed by a letter from your employer.
During your study you'll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
A genuine interest in woodworking and machinery.
Some experience handling tools and equipment.
An intermediate level of fitness to manage the physical demands of the role.
Good computer and tech skills.
Basic maths and communication skills.
The ability to work as part of a team.
You can plan your work and try to solve problems on your own.
You can understand documents you see often in everyday life.
You can write short sentences or lists to share information.
You can speak clearly and explain your thoughts in a group.
You can solve maths problems you often see in real life.
You can use email, search the internet and open files.
We tailor our courses to meet local community needs, so some campuses may have extra entry requirements. Check your preferred location for details. Need help preparing? Contact us for support.
This simple tool guides you to a suitable course level based on your foundation skills and confidence.
Our graduates go onto roles like: wood machinist in the furniture, forestry, kitchens and bathrooms, window and door manufacturing and joinery industries.
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (Wood Machining) does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
Learn core skills that prepare you for opportunities in your chosen field.
The Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (Wood Machining) does not have any related courses.
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology (Wood Machining) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 25 units of competency, including 8 core and 17 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
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